Build Your Business from Scratch
Finding the right business idea isn't about copying what works for others. It's about understanding markets, spotting gaps, and matching opportunities with your own strengths. Our program walks you through a structured approach that cuts through the noise and helps you identify genuine business potential in the Australian market.
Learn Alongside People Who Get It
You won't be working in isolation here. This program brings together aspiring entrepreneurs who are all trying to figure out their next move. Some come with half-formed ideas, others are starting from zero. What matters is the collective energy and the feedback loop you get from people who understand the challenge.
We've found that the best insights don't always come from instructors. Sometimes it's the person sitting next to you who asks the question that makes everything click. Group sessions happen twice weekly, and you'll work on real business problems together.
Weekly Workshops
Interactive sessions where you test ideas, get honest feedback, and refine your approach based on group discussion.
Peer Reviews
Regular critique sessions where participants challenge assumptions and help each other spot blind spots.
Case Studies
Real Australian business launches dissected from idea to execution, including what went wrong and why.
Project Teams
Small groups collaborate on market research assignments, testing different validation methods together.
What You'll Actually Work Through
- Market analysis techniques for identifying underserved niches in Australian markets
- Financial viability assessment without needing an accounting degree
- Customer research methods that go beyond surveys and actually reveal demand
- Business model design that matches your lifestyle and resource constraints
- Competitive positioning strategies for crowded markets
- Revenue forecasting based on realistic assumptions, not wishful thinking
- Risk assessment frameworks to evaluate ideas objectively
- Validation testing before you commit time or money
Program Structure
Duration: 16 Weeks
Four months of focused work, starting October 2025. Two evening sessions per week, plus one Saturday workshop monthly.
Format: Hybrid
Main sessions in Port Macquarie with virtual participation available. All workshops recorded for flexible review.
Group Size: Maximum 18
Deliberately kept small so everyone gets attention and contributes meaningfully to discussions.
Work Commitment
Expect to spend 6-8 hours weekly on assignments, research, and group projects outside of scheduled sessions.
Who You'll Learn From
Henrik Bergstrom
Business Development
Launched three service businesses in regional NSW over the past twelve years. Knows what works outside major cities and what doesn't translate from Sydney-centric advice.
Callum Fitzpatrick
Market Research
Spent eight years in strategic consulting before switching to teaching. His strength is making complex market analysis accessible to people without business degrees.
Siobhan Kavanaugh
Financial Planning
Former startup CFO who specialized in early-stage financial modeling. She teaches you how to build realistic projections and understand where your numbers actually come from.
Program Timeline
The next cohort begins in autumn 2025. Applications open in July, with early review available for those who want feedback on their readiness. Here's how the process works from inquiry to start date.
Application
Submit a brief outline of your business interests and background. No formal business plan required at this stage.
Opens July 2025Review Call
Thirty-minute conversation to discuss fit, answer questions, and clarify program expectations.
August 2025Confirmation
Enrollment confirmed with preparation materials sent for review before first session.
September 2025Program Start
Cohort begins with orientation and first workshop session covering research fundamentals.
October 7, 2025